HR Mixtape: Human Resources and Business Leadership

Hostage Negotiation Tactics: Every HR Pro Should Know with Scott Tillema

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Scott Tillema, corporate trainer, retired SWAT hostage negotiator, and co-founder of the Negotiations Collective. Scott draws from his experience as an FBI-trained negotiator to share how HR professionals can use proven negotiation and communication techniques to manage high-stakes conversations with confidence.

Listener Takeaways:

• Why listening is your most powerful negotiation tool as an HR leader.

• How to use emotional intelligence to build trust, even in tough conversations.

• Strategies for staying grounded when negotiations get emotional.

• Why silence can be one of the most effective tools in HR conversations.

Guest(s): Scott Tillema, Keynote Speaker | Corporate trainer | Retired SWAT Hostage Negotiator | Founder, Negotiations Collective

Documentation: Your Best Defense Against Legal Challenges with Kelly Dobbs Bunting

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Kelly Bunting, a labor and employment attorney at Greenberg Traurig LLP. The conversation dives into the evolving landscape of employment law, particularly focusing on compliance issues surrounding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies, hybrid work dynamics, and the implications of recent legal changes. This discussion is timely as organizations navigate the complexities of creating an inclusive workplace while adhering to new regulations.

Listener Takeaways:

• Learn how to effectively adapt DEI policies to foster a genuine workplace culture.

• Discover why documentation is crucial for HR compliance and risk management.

• Explore strategies for managing employee requests for remote work under the ADA.

Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can help you stay ahead in the ever-changing HR landscape!

Guest(s): Kelly Bunting, Labor and Employment Attorney, Greenberg Traurig LLP

Nutrition and Productivity: Wellness Coaching in the Workplace with Danielle Dinkelman

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson welcomes Danielle Dinkelman, co-founder and CEO of Advanced Corporate Wellness. They delve into the critical role of wellness coaching in enhancing employee experience and combating burnout, a timely topic as organizations increasingly recognize the importance of mental health and well-being in the workplace. Danielle shares her personal journey into wellness coaching and highlights how companies can invest in their employees' health to improve retention and productivity.

• Learn how wellness coaching can bridge the gap between information and application for employees.

• Discover why investing in employee well-being is not just altruistic but a smart business strategy.

• Explore strategies for creating a psychologically safe environment that fosters open communication and stress management.

Hit “Play” to gain insights that could transform your organization’s approach to employee wellness!

Guest(s): Danielle Dinkelman, Co-founder and CEO, Advanced Corporate Wellness

Supporting Working Caregivers: Balancing Family and Productivity with James Atkinson

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with James Atkinson, Vice President of Thought Leadership for the Society of Human Resource Management. They delve into the pressing issue of working caregivers, a topic that has gained urgency as over 50 million individuals balance professional responsibilities with caregiving for children, adults with chronic conditions, and the elderly. This conversation is particularly insightful as it highlights the evolving landscape of employee experience and the need for inclusive leadership in supporting caregivers, especially in light of the ongoing shifts in workforce demographics.

Listener Takeaways:

• Learn how to identify the unique needs of caregivers within your organization.

• Discover why flexibility in workplace policies can enhance productivity and retention.

• Explore strategies for embedding a culture of support that benefits all employees.

Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on how to better support working caregivers in your organization!

Guest(s): James Atkinson, Vice President of Thought Leadership, Society of Human Resource Management

Human-AI Collaboration: Redefining HR Practices with Dr. Dieter Veldsman

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Dieter Veldsman, Chief Scientist at AIHR. They delve into the integration of AI in HR practices, emphasizing the importance of managing the narrative around AI to alleviate fears and enhance employee experience. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations navigate the complexities of AI adoption while striving for inclusive leadership and data-driven decision-making.

Listener Takeaways:

• Learn how to effectively introduce AI into your talent strategies without overwhelming your team.

• Discover why understanding the ethical implications of AI is crucial for fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.

• Explore strategies for enhancing data literacy within HR to leverage analytics for better decision-making.

Hit “Play” to gain insights on transforming HR practices with AI!

Guest(s): Dr. Dieter Veldsman, Chief Scientist, AIHR

Inside the Shift: How Leadership Styles are Evolving Post-Pandemic with Dr. David Cohen

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson welcomes Dr. David Cohen, founder and senior consultant of DS Cohen and Associates. They dive into the concept of agile leadership and its relevance in today’s evolving workplace, particularly in light of shifting employee expectations post-pandemic. This conversation is timely as organizations seek to enhance employee experience and foster inclusive leadership while navigating the complexities of AI in HR.

Listener Takeaways:

• Learn how aligning organizational values with hiring practices can boost employee retention and engagement.

• Discover why emotional intelligence is crucial for modern leaders to adapt and thrive in dynamic environments.

• Explore strategies for fostering a culture of learning from failure to drive innovation and growth.

Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can transform your approach to leadership and HR practices!

Guest(s): Dr. David Cohen, Founder and Senior Consultant, DS Cohen and Associates

Authentic Allyship: Moving Beyond Performative Gestures in the Workplace with Dr. Steve Yacovelli

In this episode of the HR Mixtape, host Shari Simpson sits down with Dr. Steve Yacovelli, owner and principal of Top Dog Learning Group, LLC. They delve into the critical topic of authentic allyship in the workplace, contrasting it with performative gestures often seen in organizations. This conversation is particularly timely as companies face increasing pressure to foster inclusive leadership and diverse cultures, especially with the rise of Gen Z in the workforce. Dr. Yacovelli shares insights on how organizations can genuinely support LGBTQ+ employees and the importance of aligning corporate values with actions.

Listener Takeaways:

• Learn how to identify and combat performative allyship in your organization.

• Discover why inclusive leadership is essential for employee experience and retention.

• Explore strategies for fostering a culture of accountability and respect in the workplace.

Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights on creating a truly inclusive environment!

Guest(s): Dr. Steve Yacovelli, Owner and Principal, Top Dog Learning Group, LLC

Why HR Must Keep Its Head on a Swivel in Today's Climate with Louis Lessig

In this episode of the HR Mixtape podcast, host Shari Simpson sits down with Louis Lessig, a Labor and Employment Litigator at Brown and Connery, LLP. They delve into the pressing legal risks that HR professionals often underestimate, including retaliation, intermittent leave, and the critical need for effective management training. This conversation is particularly timely as organizations navigate the complexities of employee experience and the evolving landscape of remote work policies, especially in light of AI's growing influence in HR.

Listener Takeaways:

• Learn how to proactively address retaliation and its impact on organizational risk.

• Discover why effective management training is essential for mitigating legal issues.

• Explore strategies for developing comprehensive social media and remote work policies.

Hit “Play” to gain valuable insights that can help you enhance your HR practices and protect your organization!

Guest(s): Louis Lessig, Labor and Employment Litigator, Brown and Connery, LLP